The event was organized by Bait Al Arab, which is a Kuwait State Stud - this event was the first of its kind in Kuwait (championships like these have been held for years in the region) and they are trying to promote Kuwaiti-bred horses. Horses play a big role in the entire region - and is something they are really proud of. I guess the Gulf War really had a huge impact on the development of Kuwait compared to other Gulf countries that did not experience war - but it is nice to see that such initiatives are now being taken and that many people are working hard to put Kuwait back on the map for some positive things.
(Getting ready to go before the judges)
(Showing off in front of the judges)
(Another contestant showing off its abilities)
(Being judged during a closer look)
Funnily enough all the judges appeared to be Westerners and many of the jockeys were as well - but I guess it takes time to build up these capabilities nationally (especially in a very small country like Kuwait).
There was no shortage of local dignitaries, however. Sheiks and/or horse owners along with other prominent people sat in the VIP lounge and were constantly interviewed for television:
(The VIP section)
The whole event was transmitted on national television - apparently filmed from the roof:
(Tv crews on the roof)
When we go to events it is just as much to see the locals - what they do, how they behave, how they spend their free time - and since the horses were being presented only in Arabic anyway, we just observed the locals:
(A common sight at any event - sitting behind a local man in traditional clothes commonly worn here)
(Resting their tired feet - two locals in front of the band that played in between the presentations of horses)
Somebody has to do the dirty job...:
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